Instrument and Control Hardware Engineer
Palo Alto, CA 
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Posted 15 days ago
Job Description

PsiQuantum is on a mission to build the world's first fault tolerant quantum computer capable of tackling today's most intractable computational challenges to deliver transformative results. We know that means it will need roughly 1 million qubits and will be building scale in size.

Quantum computing is expected to deliver breakthroughs for today's still impossible computational tasks. By harnessing the laws of quantum physics, quantum computers can provide exponential performance increases over even the most powerful of today's conventional supercomputers offering the potential for extraordinary advances across a broad range of applications including climate, energy, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, finance, agriculture, transportation, materials design, and many more.

PsiQuantum is uniquely positioned to deliver on the promise of quantum computing. Our architecture is based on photonics which gives us the ability to produce our components using high-volume semiconductor manufacturing processes, the same processes that have been applied in telecommunications and data center applications for decades. Since photons don't feel heat, we can take advantage of existing cryogenic cooling systems, the kind that have been operating at facilities like Stanford Linear Accelerator (SLAC) since 2018. And because photons are basically light, they can move between subsystems using standard fiber connectivity, without the need for transduction in and out.

Our team is working across the full stack of quantum computing, from quantum architecture to photonic chip manufacturing, advanced opto-electronic packaging, hardware systems design, quantum algorithms and software tools, and cryogenic cooling. We're a highly motivated and collaborative group focused on a singular goal - building the world's first Fault Tolerant Quantum Computer on the fastest path possible.

There's more work to be done and we are looking for exceptional talent to join us on this extraordinary journey!

Job Summary:

The cryogenic engineering department is hiring an Instrument and Control Hardware Engineer who will be heavily involved in the cryogenic system design for the quantum computer. This
position will interact with multiple teams internally and suppliers externally.

Responsibilities:

  • Develop cryogenic process controls execution strategies in conjunction with overall project development team
  • Lead in P&ID (piping & Instrumentation diagram) development, operability and hazard reviews
  • Identify and manage process controls technical risk items, and process safety analysis (HAZOP)
  • Author, check or approve specifications of process control equipment including control valves, relief valves, flow measurement devices, process instrumentation, analytical systems, and DCS (distributed control system), PLC (Programmable Logic Controller), and SCADA (supervisory control and data acquisition systems)
  • Participate in Control System Design reviews
  • Participate in FAT, SAT, commission of Process Automation equipment
  • Review SIL (Safety Integrity Level) assessments and author SIL verifications
  • Participate in preparing cost estimates for valves, instrumentation, analytical equipment, DCS equipment, SIS equipment and labor
  • Participate in Cryostats and Cryoplant commissioning

Experience/Qualifications:

  • Sc., M.Sc., or Ph.D in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering or Chemical Engineering
  • 5-10+ years of experience applying engineering principles to solve complex problems related to thermal/fluid systems, LNG plant, superconducting undulator, Synchrotron Radiation and/or cryogenics
  • ractical working knowledge of controls and instrumentation for cryogenic equipment and liquid helium processing, and experience troubleshooting and maintaining cryogenic C&I equipment and systems
  • Experience integrating Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) software for Human Machine Interfaces (HMI) development, SCADA systems, and embedded instrumentation and control applications in a process plant environment
  • Direct working experience with PLC based industry control system
  • Ability to provide technical leadership in ambiguous situations.
  • Able to demonstrate a deep understanding of the design and implementation of control and instrumentation systems for process plants
  • Demonstrated experience developing and deploying networking interfaces to field equipment using ethernet, RS232, RS485, or other communication protocols
  • Demonstrated strong analytical and problem solving skills
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Desired Skills/Experience:

  • Programming -Python, PLC
  • Competent in use of specialized software including but not limited to PI, Process Book, HYSYS, Unisim, ASPEN Plus and Pro-Treat
  • Extensive experience with control systems related to large pressurized fluid process systems such as our cryogenic system, steam plants for power generation or ship propulsion, or chemical processing plants
  • Experience with AC power systems and components, compliance with electrical safety standards such as NFPA 70, and UL 508A, and implementing LOTO to protect electrical workers

PsiQuantum provides equal employment opportunity for all applicants and employees. PsiQuantum does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), gender identity, gender expression, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, age, physical or mental disability, military or veteran status, marital status, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, genetic information, or any other basis protected by applicable laws.

We are not accepting unsolicited resumes from employment agencies.

The range below reflects the minimum and maximum target range for new hire base salary across all US locations. Actual compensation may vary outside of this range and is dependent on various factors including but not limited to a candidate's qualifications including relevant education and training, competencies, experience, geographic location, and business needs. Base pay is only one part of the total compensation package. Full time roles are eligible for equity and benefits. Base pay is subject to change and may be modified in the future.

For a fully qualified candidate, the expected pay range is:

Pay Range
$116,000$170,000 USD

 

Job Summary
Company
Start Date
As soon as possible
Employment Term and Type
Regular, Full Time
Salary and Benefits
$116,000-$170,000 USD
Required Education
Doctorate
Required Experience
5 to 10 years
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